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Best Microphone for Streaming 2021

Looking for the best microphone for your Twitch livestream or just want your voice to be crisp in recording? This is the place for you.

We believe, in these times, the importance of online social presence and whether you’re looking forward to having your own game streaming channel or simply like to shout abuse (in great quality because it feels worth it), the search for the best microphone is afoot. 

ModelShort DescriptionPrice
Shure MV71. Shure MV7
Best overall but bit expensive
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Elgato Wave 32. Elgato Wave 3
great audio and mounting
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Samson G-Track Pro3. Samson G-Track Pro
Includes mixer
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Audio Technica AT20204. Audio Technica AT2020
long cable and good sound
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Blue Yeti X5. Blue Yeti X
voice level led checker
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JLab Audio Talk Go6. JLab Audio Talk Go
portable and cheap
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HyperX QuadCast (2020)7. HyperX QuadCast (2020)
4 different polar patterns
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Razer Seiren X8. Razer Seiren X
multiple color options
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Rode NT-USB9. Rode NT-USB
monitors latency
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HyperX SoloCast10. HyperX SoloCast
plug and play audio recording
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For this list, we had to assess some practical traits and aspects that help us in narrowing down a fundamental choice at the end. It is said that the attached microphones in headpiece can do the trick, but live streamers prefer the dedicated use of the microphone. It is simply because of the performance and quality a separate microphone can bring over one which is an added feature.

You may also be interested on the best wireless headphones for gaming.

The best microphone for streaming really depends on the user’s choice, but we can put forth the key features to keep a lookout for. First up is the environment you plan to sit in. If it is loud due to external aspects, perhaps noise cancelling headphones should be a priority for you. The noise cancelling feature should be strong enough to not need additional software work. 

Here are our top picks for the best microphone for streaming.

1. Shure MV7

Shure MV7

This first pick is for the users wanting studio-standard sound quality. This one is certainly the streamer’s recommended choice which is why it’s the first one in our list for best microphone for streaming. The manufacturers Shure have an establishment of more than 90 years and with each new year, they take a step closer to perfection. Presenting the Shure MV7 as our first pick was accounted for.

The microphone tops the charts with its rugged & professional all-metal design, intuitive touch panel controls, and USB/XLR connections. The Built-in headphone output gives direct headphone monitoring. Regarding audio improvements, it has optimized frequency response for rich and natural vocal reproduction and close mic applications for podcasting, streaming, and recording etc.

A very prominent feature in the device is the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop application which offers remote access to audio levels, processing, and Auto-level mode. It has TeamSpeak certified Voice Isolation Technology, and, for better positioning, it has Adjustable integrated yoke. This design is truly a number 1 choice for the enthusiastic streamers, although the price range would be a dealbreaker for a few users.

Pros

  • Remote Control
  • Rliable metal body 
  • Certified noise cancelling feature

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Loose cord connection

2. Elgato Wave 3 

Elgato Wave 3

Elgato Systems pledges on their website “Your streaming career starts here” and that is exactly the target audience for this microphone. The company has served the industry and devised great inventions to revolutionize the future of streaming. They do so by perfecting the best of technology and the Elgato Wave 3 is just one amazing example.

Some highlighted features of the device include Proprietary Clipguard technology to remove distortion, Powerful circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission and Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern for speech recording with precision. 

Two important parts of the microphone, which are highly essential during usage, is the capacitive mute and multifunctional dial. Live editing compatibility is with a widely available app Wave Link. It is a simple plug and play requiring no further installations. This product receives such great views on its audio quality because of the LEWITT Audio technology. According to our research, this is the perfect choice for kickstarting a streaming career and maintaining the audio quality for the long run. 

Pros

  • Enhanced Audio technology
  • Compatible mounting
  • Capacitive mute and multifunctional dial

Cons

  • No drawbacks found

3. Samson G-Track Pro 

Samson G-Track Pro

Planning to record the next album at home or simply want it for streaming purposes? Then this next mic on our list of the best microphone for streaming may be for you. This solution comes from Samson, a maybe not too famous company but well know in the audio technology industry. The Samson G-Track Pro will serve as a great choice in a market competitive price.

Jumping to specifications, it has cardioid, omnidirectional pickup patterns for multi-directional audio recording, a full-featured mixer with independent controls to improve your mix and standard 1/4″ instrument input for recording guitars, bass, piano etc.

Gaming or no gaming, it sure fulfills the criteria to be the best seller in the music industry. The bundle comes packed with the original microphone, double-sided pop filter and back over-ear headphones. G-track is simply the choice of musicians, podcasters, and streamers. As a big plus, it is a simple plug and play design and is compatible on PCs and consoles like Xbox, PS4 etc. 

Pros

  • Headphone and pop filter included
  • Mixer included
  • Wider range in compatibility (PC and Xbox Consoles) 

Cons

  • Minor defects in pop filter and headphone.

4. Audio Technica AT2020  

Audio Technica AT2020

If you are looking forward to streaming or singing, the next recommendation will be your pick. Audio Technica, which is a Japanese audio product manufacturing company, has came up with a device capable to cater both choices. From their series of amazing microphones, our research picks out the Audio Technica AT2020 and here is why. 

The bundle pack includes the pop filter to filter out the plosives and a 20ft. long balanced XLR microphone cable. Some of the most top-notch features include permanently polarized condenser, Cardioid polar pattern, greater noise cancellation technology integration and so much more.

For the users who are making up their mind to go for this, please be warned that a microphone preamp is required. It is great to note that the device has Sonic Sense one-year extended warranty adds one year to manufacturer’s warranty. The fact that a key feature for the device is not included raises a bit of a concern and would certainly not be a choice of recommendation for a new user or someone who’s planning to start off a singing or streaming career.

Pros

  • One-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • 20ft long cable
  • Great sound quality 

Cons

  • No on/off switch
  • preamp not included in original purchase

5. Blue Yeti X 

Blue Yeti X

Every lineup has the options which lack in some but excel in most features. This microphone can be the “All-rounder” choice you are looking for. Bluemic company came across our research for the microphone that deserves the all-rounder title. Presenting you the award-winning choice; Blue Yeti X.

This is the one stop solution for streamers, gamers, and podcasters. This device possesses the new four-capsule condenser array inside, an illuminated multi-function smart knob that allows real time monitoring and adjusting of voice levels. It also has 11-segment LED meter through which you can check if your voice level is too high or too low. 

One of its powerful features is advanced Blue VO! CE audio software that makes it easier than ever to achieve professional on-stream sound quality. The Yeti X was PC Gamers Editor Pick and 2020 honoree of the CES Innovation awards and reddot winner 2020. This is the flagship microphone that is set to achieve the best in quality with no compromise. 

Pros

  • Multi-function smart knobs for live monitoring. 
  • LED Meter for checking voice levels
  • Award winning device

Cons

  • No drawbacks found 

6. JLab Audio Talk Go

JLab Audio Talk Go

If you are looking for “accessible innovation”, The best of tech from Jlab has got you covered. Since 2005, Jlab has been the leading personal audio company and its mission has been to deliver high performance, innovative headphones, and products. The phrase “accessible innovation” fits perfectly with the Jlab Audio Talk Go and here is why.

This device delivers studio quality alongside being compact, portable, and lightweight. It includes transducer type: Condenser with USB digital output. It works perfectly for calls, podcasts, gaming, ASMR, and voice overs because of its two directional pattern modes, cardioid and omnidirectional. Talk Go features a quick-mute button for easy access, and a 3.5mm AUX input for real-time listening with zero latency. 

It also features faster plug and play, standard-sized 5/8” input for swivel mounting, studio-quality resolution of 96kHz/24BIT for clearer and detailed sound. Talk Go has been the talk of the town when it comes to innovative features placed right next to a pocket-friendly price range. It is not compatible with consoles but works perfectly for Windows and MacOS.

Pros

  • Compact and Portable
  • Quick-Mute button
  • Pocket-friendly 

Cons

  • Limited compatibility

7. HyperX QuadCast (2020) 

HyperX QuadCast

Enthusiastic to host your own Twitch stream or YouTube stream? This futuristic design will surely capture your attention and it’s one of the best microphone for game streaming. HyperX company is gaming gear brand that has been consistent in adding value to the gaming community through its tremendous products and services. The HyperX brand has released a lot of great microphones, but this choice is sure to be the rising winner.

Certified by: Discord and TeamSpeak, this design features an ideal standalone gaming condenser microphone, LED Indicator for Tap-to-mute sensor, four polar patterns (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo) for choice of sound bandwidth and GalliumPi accessories. 

One tremendous advantage of the product is its compatibility with PCs and consoles, and broadcasting capabilities on Twitch, YouTube etc. It has an internally built pop filter for reducing pops and plosives, and anti-vibration shock mount and chat program compatibility. These features spell it out to be a strong competitor, especially with its price range set out to be very cheap as compared to the features proffered.

Pros

  • 4 polar patterns
  • Strong LED Indicator
  • Greater Compatibility

Cons

  • No drawbacks found

8. Razer Seiren X

Razer Seiren X

Looking for a professional design with choice of color? We now take you to the lineup of Razer. Razer company has been successful in redefining the gaming world through better laptops, better headphones, and better microphones. Amidst so many options, we planned to look for variety in color and we came across the spectacular Razer Seiren X.

For this design to be labelled professionally, we do so by inspecting its compact and portable design, which provides superior audio broadcasting power. We look over the Super Cardioid Pickup Pattern which records at a tighter angle, reducing unnecessary background noise.

Amidst all, we fell for the color range (white, pink, and black) which truly accents the appeal and design. It has built-in shock mounts that reduce vibrations. It has limited compatibility (not functioning on Xbox consoles and PS4). One flaw that a lot of users commented on, is the features that still are overpriced as compared to its market choices present. But if you are a person who falls for colors, paying a little extra would not get you in a guilt trip.

Pros

  • 3 varieties of color
  • Improved Features

Cons

  • Slightly overpriced

9. Rode NT-USB

Rode NT-USB

Planning to give your video setup a studio look? Then let us start with a choice of the studio. Rode company is the top manufacturers for high quality gaming gear design and have successfully been recognized for their tremendous tech work in cost efficient options. To think about this as our 8th recommendation of the best mic for streaming, we must factor the kind of setup modern Streamers and YouTubers (and even cover artists have). We have from the company Rode NT-USB.

The fundamental word here is “Studio” because this device packs studio-grade headphone amplifier with precision control to monitor sounds. There is also a zero-latency monitoring mode for reducing echo and unwanted noises. 

The design is simple compact, elegant, and flexible, as its unique magnetic desk stand provides the base strong enough to fight bumps and knocks. The desk mic is also easily removable, making it easier to use. The design’s hard-wearing steel and reinforced nylon resin construction gives it greater durability

Pros

  • Zero Latency monitoring
  • Compact and flexible
  • Durable 

Cons

  • Weak Knox Earphones

10. HyperX SoloCast

HyperX SoloCast

The final pick for the best mic for streaming will be the choice for the high-end streamers by the recently endorsed HyperX. The HyperX QuadCast was considered a more elite choice for streaming, gaming, and podcasting. However, it is effective to ponder over one of their lineup’s cost-effective alternative. That being the newest release HyperX SoloCast

This device features a solid plug and play audio recording ease for faster work and no extra installations, a great flexible stand for positioning for a variety of heights and Cardioid pattern for excluding background noise and room reflection. The sky’s the limit when it comes to compatibility as the device renders clear and clean voice (Certified by Discord and TeamSpeak). 

The HyperX SoloCast is clearly rocking in specifications and price while the QuadCast possessed greater features at a higher cost. Perhaps, it is a judgement call for the user to make whether his fulfillments are being done by this or the latter. Surely, the passage in the final words will further aid in making the final decision.


How to Choose a Microphone for Streaming

So, you’ve decided to pick up streaming as a hobby because it seems fun, and you are maybe hoping to make a bit of income on the side. You may have given it a shot but found that your current microphone, built into your webcam or camera, is simply not good enough because all it picks up is noise. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some things to look out for while choosing a microphone for streaming.

XLR vs USB

This has been a long-standing debate. USB microphones are cheaper and typically more convenient to integrate into your computing setup. The only thing you really need to do is plug the USB cable in and rarely install drivers and you’re good to go. So, if you’re just getting started with streaming as a hobby, there’s no need to shell out for an expensive XLR setup. What you do get with XLR however, is extra quality and more nuanced sound detection.

If you’re a professional, you should definitely invest in an XLR setup, even if you need to dig into your paycheck a bit. 

Dynamic vs Condenser

Dynamic microphones are typically cheaper and built to be more durable. However, this comes at a cost: accuracy; condenser microphones are way more sensitive to small changes in the audio. This can be a double edged sword. On one hand, it means that if you have a noisy room, this will end up being a drawback as it would pick up more noise.

However, at the same time, for quiet, controlled environments, condenser microphones are amazing, especially when dealing with situations where high fidelity audio matters. You’ll also have to pay a bit more too. But if your environment is suitable and you can afford it, this is a great option.

There are a lot of other factors to consider too. If you’re curious, be sure to check out reviews for individual microphones and their features. There’s a lot of variability here and if you look hard enough you’re bound to find something that suits you.

Final words

Now that the list of recommendation for the best microphone for streaming is out there, we are left to think about a few important questions. In the beginning we talked about the importance of noise cancellation and our research highlighted that feature properly.

Our recommendation is the Shure MV7, but really, any mic from the list would be a great purchase.

However, what can aid your decision making is putting a price tag against the provided features. The reality is brand value does add to the cost of the product, but a certain metric can be made for ease. Pricing must be the number one factor for making the final decision. If long term exposure is required, long term investment goes without saying. Next up is the path of streamer, gamer, or podcaster to be decided, simply because it will allow you to set the expectations for features as well. Streamers may require more features than a podcaster or a gamer, but it depends on the user and his/her preference.

You may also be interested on the best webcam for gaming streaming.

At the end, we can conclude with the fact that all these microphones have been reviewed to be serving the users for the long term. Hence, it is imperative for the user to make one solid decision and preserve the device through care in use.

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